Spicy new GT option shoves Subaru Legacy straight into the hot mid-executive superleague
Comfort and convenience features abound in GT's sumptuous and well-appointed cabin - from full leather to rain sensitive wipers and headlights that switch on automatically as it gets darker outside; electrically-adjusted driver (with memory function) and passenger seats; dual-zone climate control with rear vents, smart keyless access and a push button start and Xenon HID headlights among with many other standard spec features
Our drive was all too brief to bring out the best in GT, but it certainly was enough to be sure that it boasts all the advantages you'd expect from a Subaru...
Oddly enough GT no longer has that offbeat Subaru rumble - the engine note is cracking smooth as that boxer delivers its performance in a manner sure to excite the driver. That flat torque curve makes for a creamy, seamless power delivery and Legacy feels like a car far smaller than it is.
That's in part thanks to the way the boxer makes its power and torque as noted, but it's also as much to do with that perfectly balanced and poised symmetrical all-wheel drive chassis.
Don't be scared by the 5-speed autobox either - it may be a cog or three short of the latest kit on the market but it works very well with the driver, shifting when it needs to, quickly and smoothly - good enough for one to think where those extra gears may be but still deliver a sound repertoire...
If you drive or have driven a Subaru, you'll know what we mean. If not, why not pop past your local Subaru dealer and ask them to let you take Legacy GT for a spin? Trouble is if you do that, there's a fair chance you may never even get to that BMW or Audi dealer in the end...
Ths Subaru Legacy GT costs R435 000 and qualifies for duty-free pricing. This means that diplomats based in South Africa as well as quadriplegics and paraplegics – a group who have long-favoured Subaru products thanks to their excellent ingress and egress and general ease of use – enjoy a substantial rebate once they have the car modified to drive with hand controls.
- Michele Lupini
Subaru Also launched the new Outback 3.6i this week - catch that report later...
